Toothbrush

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to a toothbrush that incorporates tapered bristle filaments in combination with tuft holes of a reduced size, such as between 1.3 mm to 1.4 mm in diameter. In another aspect, the invention provides a toothbrush that balances the number of tuft holes and the number of tapered bristle filaments within each tuft hole to achieve a unique ratio that reduces the cost of manufacture of the toothbrush while maintaining a mouth-feel that consumers associate with a quality product. In still another aspect, the present invention provides a toothbrush that incorporates tapered bristle filaments and also achieves a balance between reduced size tuft holes and the spacing between adjacent tuft holes to achieve a unique ratio that reduces the cost of manufacture of the toothbrush while maintaining a mouth-feel that consumers associate with a quality product.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/344,868, filed Mar. 13, 2014, which is a U.S. national stageentry under 35 U.S.C. §371 of Patent Cooperation Treaty PatentApplication No. PCT/CN2011/001555, filed Sep. 14, 2011, the entiretiesof which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Toothbrushes using tapered bristle filaments (also referred to astapered bristles or needle bristles) are known in the art. Taperedbristle filaments are bristle filaments in which at least the tipportions (i.e., the terminal end portions) of the bristle filaments havea tapered cross-section. The base portions of the tapered bristlefilaments may have a generally cylindrical shape or may also have atapered cross-section as desired.

The use of tapered bristle filaments in toothbrushes has becomeincreasingly popular due at least in part to the unique “mouth-feel” andexcellent cleaning performance provided by the very fine tapered tipportions. However, tapered bristle filaments require additionalprocessing steps as compared to traditional non-tapered bristlefilaments. Thus, tapered bristle filaments are quite a bit moreexpensive than non-tapered bristle filaments.

Therefore, there is a need for a toothbrush design that helps offset theincreased cost of using tapered bristle filaments while maintaining itscleaning efficacy, unique mouth-feel, and perception of a qualityproduct to the consumer.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in one aspect, provides a toothbrush thatincorporates tapered bristle filaments in combination with tuft holes ofa reduced size. In another aspect, the invention provides a toothbrushthat balances the number of tuft holes and the number of tapered bristlefilaments within each tuft hole to achieve a unique ratio that reducesthe cost of manufacture of the toothbrush while maintaining a mouth-feelthat consumers associate with a quality product. In still anotheraspect, the present invention provides a toothbrush that incorporatestapered bristle filaments and also achieves a balance between thediameter of reduced size tuft holes and the spacing between adjacenttuft holes to achieve a unique ratio that reduces the cost ofmanufacture of the toothbrush while maintaining a mouth-feel thatconsumers associate with a quality product.

In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a toothbrushcomprising: a handle; a head having a first surface comprising aplurality of tuft holes having a diameter D_(TH), wherein D_(TH) is in arange of 1.3 mm to 1.4 mm; and a bristle tuft mounted within andextending from each of the tuft holes, each of the bristle tufts formedby a plurality of tapered bristle filaments.

In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a toothbrushcomprising: a handle; a head having a first surface having X number oftuft holes; a bristle tuft mounted within and extending from each of thetuft holes, each of the bristle tufts formed by Y number of taperedbristle filaments; and wherein a ratio of X to Y is in a range between1.05 to 1.64.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention is directed to atoothbrush comprising: a handle; a head having a first surface having arow of tuft holes, each of the tuft holes having a perimeter P; abristle tuft mounted within and extending from each of the tuft holes,each of the bristle tufts formed by a plurality of tapered bristlefilaments; wherein adjacent tuft holes in the row of tuft holes areseparated by a distance Z, wherein Z is a linear distance between centerpoints of the adjacent tuft holes; and wherein a ratio of Z to P is in arange of 0.35 to 0.46.

In an even further aspect, the invention can be a toothbrush comprising:a handle; a head having a first surface and a second surface, the firstsurface comprising a tufting area A_(TS) comprising X number of tuftholes, each of the tuft holes having a tuft hole area A_(TH); a bristletuft mounted within and extending from each of the tuft holes, each ofthe bristle tufts formed by a plurality of tapered bristle filaments;and wherein a ratio of A_(TS) to X×A_(TH) is in a range of 3.4 to 4.4.

In a still further aspect, the invention can be a toothbrush comprising:a handle; a head having a first surface and a second surface, the firstsurface comprising a tufting area A_(TS) comprising X number of tuftholes; a bristle tuft mounted within and extending from each of the tuftholes, each of the bristle tufts formed by a plurality of taperedbristle filaments; and wherein a ratio of A_(TH) to X is in a range of5.0 to 6.5.

Further areas of applicability of the present invention will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples, whileindicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended forpurposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope ofthe invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from thedetailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side planar view of a toothbrush according to an embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front planar view of the toothbrush of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a close-up view of area III of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV ofFIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a front planar view of a toothbrush according anotherembodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 6 is a close-up view of area VI of FIG. 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merelyexemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention,its application, or uses.

The description of illustrative embodiments according to principles ofthe present invention is intended to be read in connection with theaccompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entirewritten description. In the description of embodiments of the inventiondisclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merelyintended for convenience of description and is not intended in any wayto limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as“lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,”“down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g.,“horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed torefer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawingunder discussion. These relative terms are for convenience ofdescription only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed oroperated in a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated assuch. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,”“interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structuresare secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectlythrough intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigidattachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise.Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated byreference to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the inventionexpressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodimentsillustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that mayexist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of theinvention being defined by the claims appended hereto.

Referring to FIG. 1, a toothbrush 100 is illustrated. The toothbrush 100extends from a proximal end 101 to a distal end 102 along a longitudinalaxis A-A. The toothbrush 100 comprises a handle 110 and a head 120. Thehandle 110 is an elongated structure that provides a user of thetoothbrush 100 with a mechanism by which he/she can readily grip andmanipulate the toothbrush 100. The handle 110 may be formed of manydifferent shapes, sizes, materials and by a variety of manufacturingmethods that are well-known to those skilled in the art. If desired, thehandle 110 may include a suitable textured grip made of a softelastomeric material to enhance the handling of the toothbrush 100.Although not illustrated, in certain embodiments the handle 110 maytransition into a neck, which may be a portion of the toothbrush 100with a smaller transverse cross-sectional area than the handle 110.However, in other embodiments the handle 110 may transition directlyinto the head 120.

In the exemplified embodiment, the toothbrush 100 is illustrated as amanual toothbrush. However, the invention is not to be so limited and incertain other embodiments the toothbrush can be a powered or electrictoothbrush.

The handle 110 and the head 120 of the toothbrush 100 are formed as asingle unitary structure using a molding, milling, machining or othersuitable process. However, in other embodiments, the handle 110 and thehead 120 may be formed as separate components which are operablyconnected at a later stage of the manufacturing process by any suitabletechnique known in the art, including without limitation thermal orultrasonic welding, a tight-fit assembly, a coupling sleeve, threadedengagement, adhesion, or fasteners. Whether the head 120 and handle 110are of a unitary or multi-piece construction (including connectiontechniques) is not limiting of the present invention, unlessspecifically stated. In some embodiments of the invention, the head 120may be detachable (and replaceable) from the handle 110 using techniquesknown in the art.

The head 120 generally comprises a front surface 121, a rear surface 122opposite the front surface 121 and a peripheral side surface 123 thatextends between the front and rear surfaces 121, 122. The front surface121 and the rear surface 121 of the head 120 can take on a wide varietyof shapes and contours, none of which are limiting of the presentinvention. For example, the front and rear surfaces 121, 122 can beplanar, contoured or combinations thereof. Moreover, if desired, therear surface 122 may also comprise additional structures for oralcleaning or tooth engagement, such as a soft tissue cleaner or a toothpolishing structure. An example of a soft tissue cleaner is anelastomeric pad comprising a plurality of nubs and/or ridges. An exampleof a tooth polishing structure can be an elastomeric element, such as aprophy cup(s) or elastomeric wipers. Furthermore, while the head 120 isnormally widened relative to the handle 110 (and the neck whereapplicable), it could in some constructions simply be a continuousextension or narrowing of the handle 110.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 concurrently, the front surface 121 of thehead 120 comprises a bristle field 140, extending therefrom for cleaningteeth. While the bristle field 140 is particularly suited for brushingteeth, the bristle field 140 can also be used to clean other oralsurfaces as desired. The bristle field 140 comprises a plurality ofbristle tufts 146, which in turn comprises a plurality of taperedbristle filaments 141, mounted within tuft holes 142 of the head 120 andextend from the front surface 121 of the head 120.

The front surface 121 of the head 120 of the toothbrush 100 comprises atufting area A_(TS) in which a plurality of the tuft holes 142 areprovided. In one embodiment, the tufting area A_(TS) is a substantiallyplanar surface that is delimited by a contoured peripheral edge of thehead 120. In other embodiments, the tufting area A_(TS) may comprise oneor more contours, either concave and/or convex. In the exemplifiedembodiment, the tufting area A_(TS) is oval in shape but can take onother shapes if desired. In certain embodiments, the tufting area A_(TS)is in a range of 180 to 270 mm². In one preferred embodiment where thetoothbrush 100 has a large head 120, the tufting area A_(TS) is in arange of 210 mm² to 270 mm² in size. In a further preferred embodimenthaving a large head 120, the tufting area A_(TS) is in a range of 230mm² to 250 mm², with a size of approximately 242 mm² being mostpreferred. In one preferred embodiment where the toothbrush 100 has asmall head 120, the tufting area A_(TS) is in a range of 180 mm² to 210mm² in size. In a further preferred embodiment having a small head 120,the tufting area A_(TS) is in a range of 190 mm² to 200 mm², with a sizeof approximately 195 mm² being most preferred.

The tufting area A_(TS) of the front surface 121 of the head 120comprises X number of the tuft holes 142. In the exemplified embodiment,the number X of tuft holes 142 on the head 120 is equal to 44. However,the invention is not to be so limited and the number X of tuft holes 142in the front surface 121 of the head 120 can range from 36 to 44 inother embodiments. More specifically, in an embodiment where thetoothbrush 100 has a large head 120, X is equal to approximately 44 andin an embodiment where the toothbrush 100 has a small head 120, X isequal to approximately 36. Each of the tuft holes 142 comprises adiameter D_(TH) that is in a range of 1.3 mm to 1.4 mm.

In one embodiment, the diameter D_(TH) is selected so each tuft hole 142has a tuft hole area A_(TH1) in a range of 1.30 mm² to 1.55 mm². Incertain other embodiments, the tuft hole area A_(TH1) and the number Xof the tuft holes 142 are selected so that the ratio of A_(TS) toX×A_(TH1) is in a range of 3.4 to 4.4, and most preferably in a range of3.52 to 3.57. As used herein, all ratios are given as an empiricalnumber and, thus, are given with respect to 1. For example a ratio of 2is, in fact, a ratio of 2:1.

Furthermore, a ratio of the tufting area A_(TS) to the number of holes Xis in a range of 5.2 to 6.4. In one preferred embodiment wherein thetuft holes 142 have a circular or rounded shape, the ratio of thetufting area A_(TS) to the number of holes X is in a range of 5.3 to5.6, and more particularly in a range of approximately 5.4 to 5.5.

The tuft holes 142 are arranged on the front surface 121 of the head 120in rows. The rows of the tuft holes 142 include transverse rows 147 thatextend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A andlongitudinal rows 148 that extend substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis A-A. However, a number of the tuft holes 142 that arepositioned nearest to the distal end 102 of the head 120 and a number ofthe tuft holes 142 that are positioned nearest a proximal end 125 of thehead 120 are not in longitudinal alignment with the longitudinal rows148 located in a central area of the head 120. Furthermore, although theexemplary embodiment includes a plurality of transverse rows 147 and aplurality of longitudinal rows 148, in certain embodiments, only asingle transverse row 147 and/or longitudinal row 148 may be utilized.Similarly, in certain embodiments, the tuft holes 142 that arepositioned nearest to the distal end 102 of the head 120 and the tuftholes 142 that are positioned nearest a proximal end 125 may be inlongitudinal alignment with the longitudinal rows 148 located in acentral area of the head 120.

In the exemplified embodiment, a central section of the tuft holes 142are arranged on the front surface 121 of the head 120 in a 9×4 array.Furthermore, there is an additional transverse row of three tuft holes142 positioned below the 9×4 array nearest the proximal end of the head120, an additional transverse row of three tuft holes 142 positionedabove the 9×4 array and an additional transverse row of two tuft holes142 positioned at the distal end 102 of the head 120. Of course, theinvention is not to be limited by the particular arrangement of the tuftholes 142 illustrated and other arrangements of the tuft holes 142 onthe front surface 121 of the head 120 are contemplated within the scopeof the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4 concurrently, the tapered bristle filaments141 will be described in more detail. Each of the tapered bristlefilaments 141 comprises a base portion 143 and a tapered portion 144.Furthermore, each of the tapered bristle filaments 141 can be formed ofa wide variety of materials suitable for forming filaments for oral use,including without limitation, polybutylene terephthalate, polyethyleneterephthalate, nylon or the like. The tapered portions 144 of thetapered bristle filaments 141 can be formed by means of chemical etchingby applying, for example, sulfuric acid or sodium hydroxide solution tothe tapered portion 144 of the tapered bristle filaments 141 via animmersion or spray technique. During such a process, the chemical erodesaway portions of the tapered bristle filaments 141 to form the taperedportion 144. Alternatively, the tapered portions 144 of the taperedbristle filaments 141 may be tapered by mechanical means, includingshaving the bristle ends with the blade of a knife, grinding, or with arounding machine or by any other means. Whether chemical or mechanicalmeans are used to form the desired taper, the tapering results in abristle having a generally conical or truncated-cone profile that taperstowards its terminal end.

In the exemplified embodiment, the cylindrical base portion 143 of eachof the tapered bristle filaments 141 extends approximately two-thirdsthe length of the tapered bristle filament 141 from the front surface121 of the head 120 to a distal tip 145 of the tapered bristle filament141. Thus, in the exemplified embodiment each of the tapered bristlefilaments 141 tapers to the distal tip 145 only in the top one-thirdportion of the tapered bristle filament 141. However, in certain otherembodiments the tapered portion 144 of the tapered bristle filament 141may extend from approximately one-half of the length of the taperedbristle filament 141 from the front surface 121 of the head 120 to thedistal tip 145 of the tapered bristle filament 141. In such anembodiment, the tapered bristle filaments 141 begin to taper atapproximately one-half the length. Furthermore, in still otherembodiments each of the tapered bristle filaments 141 may taperthroughout the entire length of the filament 141 including both the baseand tapered portions 143, 144. In still other embodiments, the taperedportion 144 may be less than one-third of the entire length of thefilament 141. Thus, the invention is not to be limited by the relativelength the base portion 143 and the tapered portion 144.

Each of the tapered bristle filaments 141 has a diameter D_(B)(referring to FIG. 3) at the base portion 143 that is in a range of 0.16mm to 0.19 mm. The diameter D_(B) is the largest diameter of the taperedbristle filaments 141. Thus, as the bristle filaments 141 taper towardsthe distal end 125, the diameter of the tapered bristle filaments 141decreases.

The bristle tufts 146 of the bristle field 140 of the present inventioncan be affixed to the head 120 in any manner known in the art. Forexample, staples/anchors, in-mold tufting (IMT) or anchor free tufting(AFT) could be used to mount the bristle tufts 146 (which comprise thetapered bristle filaments 141) to the head 120. In AFT, a plate ormembrane is secured to the brush head, such as by ultrasonic welding.The bristles extend through the plate or membrane. The tapered free endsof the tapered bristle filaments 141 on one side of the plate ormembrane perform the cleaning function. The non-tapered free ends of thetapered bristle filaments 141 on the other side of the plate or membraneare melted together by heat to be anchored in place. Alternatively, thebristles could be mounted to tuft blocks or sections by extendingthrough suitable openings in the tuft blocks so that the base of thebristles is mounted within or below the tuft block.

The term “bristle filament” is used herein to refer to each individualfilament that extends upwardly from the front surface 121 of the head120. When the bristle tufts 146 are connected to the head via atraditional staple/anchor technique, the bristle tufts 146 (and thuseach bristle strand that makes up the bristle tuft 146) are mountedwithin the tuft holes 142 in a bent manner so as to resemble a generalU-shape. Thus, each single bristle strand (which is tapered at bothends) is bent in a U-shape and, as a result, forms two distinct taperedbristle filaments 141 extending upwardly from the front surface 121 ofthe head 120. In other words, when using staples/anchors, a singlebristle strand is bent in half and stapled to the head 121 such that twotapered bristle filaments 141 extend from the head 120. Thus, the numberof tapered bristle filaments 141 is twice the number of bristle strands.In order to ensure that each of the bristle filaments 141 has a taper atits distal end 145, when anchors/staples are used to connect the taperedbristle filaments 141 to the head 120, the bristle strands are taperedat both ends such that each end of the bristle strand is tapered. Inthis manner, each of the two bristle filaments 141 that extend from thehead 120 as a result of a single bristle strand being affixed to thehead 120 via anchors/staples will have a taper.

When using IMT of AFT for connecting the tooth engaging elements 140 tothe head 120, each individual bristle strand results in only a singletapered bristle filament 141. Thus, in such an embodiment, each of thetapered bristle filaments 141 is tapered on only one end. Furthermore,in such embodiments the number of tapered bristle filaments actuallyextending from the front surface 121 of the head 120 is equal to thenumber of bristle strands actually affixed to the head 120.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4 concurrently, the toothbrush 100 of the presentinvention will be described in more detail. Mounted within each of thetuft holes 142 is a bristle tuft 146. Each of the bristle tufts 146 isformed from a plurality of the tapered bristle filaments 141. Morespecifically, each of the bristle tufts 146 comprises a number Y oftapered bristle filaments 141. In the exemplified embodiment, each ofthe bristle tufts 146 comprises 34 of the tapered bristle filaments 141(which, as described above, would be equal to 17 bristle strands when ananchor/staple technique is utilized). However, the invention is not tobe so limited and the number Y of tapered bristle filaments 141 thatform each bristle tuft 146 can be in a range from 28 to 40 (which wouldbe equivalent to 14 to 20 bristle strands when an anchor/stapletechnique is used). Thus, the total number of tapered bristle filaments141 on the toothbrush 100 is in a range from 1176 to 1840, and morespecifically in a range from 1232 to 1760. When the tapered bristlefilaments 141 are connected to the head via an IMT of AFT technique, thetotal number of bristle strands is equal to the total number of taperedbristle filaments 141. However, when the tapered bristle filaments 141are connected to the head via an anchor/staple technique such that asingle bristle strand creates two distinct tapered bristle filaments141, the toothbrush 100 will comprise from 588 to 920 total bristlestrands, and more specifically from 616 to 880 total bristle strands.

Furthermore, as discussed above, the tuft holes 142 are arranged on thefirst surface 121 of the head 120 in rows 147, 148. Adjacent tuft holes142 in each of the transverse rows 147 are separated by a distanceZ_(TR1). More specifically, each of the tuft holes 142 has a centerpoint 149 and Z_(TR1) is a linear distance between the center points 149of adjacent tuft holes 142 in the transverse rows 147. Furthermore,adjacent tuft holes 142 in each of the longitudinal rows 148 areseparated by a distance Z_(LR1). More specifically, Z_(LR1) is a lineardistance between the center points 149 of adjacent tuft holes 142 in thelongitudinal rows 148. In the exemplified embodiment, the distanceZ_(TR1) is equal to the distance Z_(LR1). However, in certain otherembodiments the distance Z_(TR1) can be different than the distanceZ_(LR1). In embodiments where Z_(TR1) and Z_(LR1) are different, Z_(LR1)is greater than Z_(TR1). Regardless of whether the distances Z_(TR1),Z_(LR1) are equal or different, both the distance L_(TR1) betweenadjacent tuft holes 142 in each of the transverse rows 147 and thedistance Z_(LR1) between adjacent tuft holes 142 in each of thelongitudinal rows are in a range of 2.1 mm to 2.4 mm. In one specificembodiment, the distance Z_(TR1) is in a range of 2.1 mm to 2.3 mm, with2.2 mm being preferred, while the distance Z_(LR1) is in a range of 2.3mm to 2.4 mm, with 2.32 mm being preferred. In another embodiment, thedistance Z_(LR1) is preferably 2.3 mm. The tuft holes 142 also have aperimeter (or circumference) that is in a range of between 4.0 mm to 5.0mm.

When circular tufts holes 142 are used, with the distance Z being in therange of 2.1 mm to 2.4 mm and the diameter D_(TH) of the tuft holes 142being in the range of 1.3 mm to 1.4 mm, a ratio of Z to D_(TH) ispreferably maintained in a range of 1.5 to 1.8.

Furthermore, as described above the number X of tuft holes 142 is in arange of 42 to 46 and the number Y of tapered bristle filaments 141 pertuft hole 142 is in a range of 28 to 40. Thus, a ratio of X to Y is in arange of 1.05 to 1.64, and more specifically the ratio of X to Y isapproximately equal to 1.3. However, the invention is not to be solimited and the ratio of X to Y may fall outside of the above-notedrange in certain embodiments. Nonetheless, the ratio of X to Y isgreater than one in all embodiments.

The present invention uses the tuft holes 142 having a diameter D_(TH)in a range of 1.3 mm to 1.4 mm to increase the total number of the tuftholes 142 that will fit on the head by creating a pattern of the tuftholes 142 with a relatively small linear distance between the centerpoints 149 of adjacent tuft holes 142. By positioning the tuft holes 142closely together on the head 110, a reduction in the number of taperedbristle filaments 141 disposed within each tuft hole 142 can be achievedwithout reducing the overall appearance or affect of the toothbrush 100.Table 1 provides a relative comparison between a conventional tuft holelayout and the tuft hole layout of the present invention.

TABLE 1 Number Total Hole Bristle Filaments of Tuft Number of DiameterDiameter per hole Holes Filaments Conventional 1.52 mm 0.175 mm 46-50 401840-2000 Present 1.40 mm 0.175 mm 28-40 44 1232-1760 Invention

The data in Table 1 indicates an average strand reduction from 1920 in aconventional tuft layout, versus 1496 for the layout of the presentinvention described herein above, despite the increase in the number oftuft holes on the head. This represents a surprising 22% reduction inthe amount of tapered bristle filaments on average per toothbrush. Sucha reduction in the total number of tapered bristle filaments pertoothbrush is significant due to the added costs involved in creating atapered bristle filament. In addition, such a reduction in the amount oftapered bristle filaments provides improved deeper cleaning because lessbristle filaments are fighting for the tight and hard-to-reach spacesbetween gums and teeth. Further, it is believed that the reduction inthe amount of tapered bristle filaments leads to less waste of materialswhile maintaining similar performance, and in some instances achievingsuperior performance.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, a toothbrush 100A according to anotherembodiment of the invention is illustrated. The toothbrush 100A isidentical to the toothbrush 100 in all respects except that the tuftholes 142A in the toothbrush 100A are rectangular, or square in shaperather than circular. Only those components of the toothbrush 100A thatare different from the components of the toothbrush 100 will bedescribed in detail below. The same reference numerals are used hereinand in the drawings to designate similar components, except that for thetoothbrush 100A there is an “A” at the end of each reference numeral.

The toothbrush 100A comprises a tufting area A_(TS) having similar sizerequirements or preferences as the toothbrush 100. Thus, the tuftingarea A_(TS) of the toothbrush 100A is in a range of 210 mm² to 270 mm².Moreover, in large head embodiments, the tufting area A_(TS) is in arange of 230 mm² to 250 mm², with a size of approximately 242 mm² beingmost preferred. In small head embodiments, the tufting area A_(TS) is ina range of 180 mm² to 210 mm², more preferably in a range of 190 mm² to200 mm², with a size of approximately 195 mm² being most preferred.

Also similar to the toothbrush 100, the toothbrush 100A comprises Xnumber of tuft holes 142A, wherein X is in a range of 32 to 40. Morespecifically, in an embodiment wherein the toothbrush 100A has a smallhead 120A, X is equal to approximately 32 and in an embodiment whereinthe toothbrush 100A has a large head 120A, X is equal to approximately40. As noted above, in the toothbrush 100A the tuft holes 142A arerectangular or square in shape having a side length L_(S) in a range of1.2 mm to 1.6 mm, and more specifically approximately 1.4 mm. Thus, thetuft holes 142A have a tuft hole area A_(TH2) in a range of about 1.7mm² to 2.2 mm², and more specifically approximately 1.96 mm².

A ratio of the tufting area A_(TS) to the number of holes X is in arange of 5.2 to 6.4. In one preferred embodiment wherein the tuft holes142 have a square or rectangular shape, the ratio of the tufting areaA_(TS) to the number of holes X is in a range of 5.9 to 6.2, and moreparticularly in a range of approximately 6.0 to 6.1.

Similar to the toothbrush 100, the tuft holes 142A in the toothbrush100A are arranged on the first surface 121A of the head 120A in rows147A, 148A. The rows 142A in the toothbrush 100A have the sameconfiguration as the rows of tuft holes 142 in the toothbrush 100 exceptthat the central section of tuft holes 142A are arranged on the frontsurface 121A of the head 120A in an 8×4 array. The remainder of the tuftholes 142A are arranged as discussed above with regard to the tuft holes142 of the toothbrush 100. Of course, the invention is not to be limitedby the particular arrangement of the tuft holes 142A illustrated andother arrangements of the tuft holes 142A on the front surface 121A ofthe head 120A are contemplated within the scope of the presentinvention.

Adjacent tuft holes 142A in each of the transverse rows 147A areseparated by a distance Z_(TR2). More specifically, each of the tuftholes 142A has a center point 149A and Z_(TR2) is a linear distancebetween the center points 149A of adjacent tuft holes 142A in thetransverse rows 148A. Furthermore, adjacent tuft holes 142A in each ofthe longitudinal rows 148A are separated by a distance Z_(LR2). Morespecifically, Z_(LR2) is a linear distance between the center portions149A of adjacent tuft holes 142A in the longitudinal rows 148A. Incertain embodiments, the distance Z_(TR2) between adjacent tuft holes142A in each of the longitudinal rows are in a range of 2.1 mm to 2.3mm, with 2.2 mm being preferred. Moreover, in certain embodiments thedistance Z_(LR2) between adjacent tuft holes 142A is in a range of 2.3mm to 2.7 mm, with 2.55 mm being preferred.

In embodiments where the tuft holes 142A are not circular in shape, thetuft holes 142A will generically comprise a perimeter P. According tocertain embodiments of the present invention, the perimeter P isselected to be in a range of 5.0 mm to 6.0 mm, and more preferably in arange of 5.4 mm to 5.8 mm, and most preferably approximately 5.6 mm. Incertain other embodiments of the invention, the sizes of the tuft holes142A and the distances Z_(TR2), Z_(LR2) (collectively referred to as“Z”) therebetween are controlled so that a ratio of Z to P is in a rangeof 0.35 to 0.46. In such embodiments, Z is preferably in a range of 2.1to 2.7, and more preferably in a range of 2.2 mm to 2.6 mm. Of course,the embodiments having circular tuft holes 142 discussed above can haveZ and P controlled such that the ratio of Z to P fits within theabove-noted range.

In some embodiments, the tuft holes 142, 142A will be neither circularnor rectangular/square. For example, the tuft holes may bediamond-shaped, triangular or oval in certain embodiments.

As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each andevery value that is within the range. Any value within the range can beselected as the terminus of the range. In addition, all references citedherein are hereby incorporated by referenced in their entireties. In theevent of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and thatof a cited reference, the present disclosure controls.

While the foregoing description and drawings represent the exemplaryembodiments of the present invention, it will be understood that variousadditions, modifications and substitutions may be made therein withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the present invention as definedin the accompanying claims. In particular, it will be clear to thoseskilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in otherspecific forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, sizes, and withother elements, materials, and components, without departing from thespirit or essential characteristics thereof. One skilled in the art willappreciate that the invention may be used with many modifications ofstructure, arrangement, proportions, sizes, materials, and componentsand otherwise, used in the practice of the invention, which areparticularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirementswithout departing from the principles of the present invention. Thepresently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in allrespects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the inventionbeing defined by the appended claims, and not limited to the foregoingdescription or embodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. A toothbrush comprising: a handle; a head havinga first surface comprising a plurality of tuft holes having a diameterD_(TH), wherein D_(TH) is in a range of 1.3 mm to 1.4 mm; and a bristletuft mounted within and extending from each of the tuft holes, each ofthe bristle tufts formed by a plurality of tapered bristle filaments. 2.The toothbrush according to claim 1 wherein D_(TH) is approximately 1.4mm.
 3. The toothbrush according to claim 1 wherein each of the bristletufts is formed by Y number of tapered bristle filaments, wherein Y isin a range of 28 to
 40. 4. The toothbrush according to claim 1 furthercomprising: the tuft holes arranged on the first surface of the head inat least one row, wherein adjacent tuft holes in the row are separatedby a distance Z, wherein Z is a linear distance between center points ofthe adjacent tuft holes; and wherein Z is in a range of 2.1 mm to 2.4mm.
 5. The toothbrush according to claim 4 wherein a ratio of Z toD_(TH) is in a range of 1.5 to 1.8.
 6. The toothbrush according to claim5 wherein the tuft holes are arranged on the first surface of the headin a plurality of the rows.
 7. The toothbrush according to claim 1wherein all bristle filaments on the head are tapered bristle filaments,and wherein the head comprises between 1232 and 1760 tapered bristlefilaments in total.
 8. A toothbrush comprising: a handle; a head havinga first surface having X number of tuft holes; a bristle tuft mountedwithin and extending from each of the tuft holes, each of the bristletufts formed by Y number of tapered bristle filaments; and wherein aratio of X to Y is in a range between 1.05 to 1.64.
 9. The toothbrushaccording to claim 8 wherein each of the tuft holes have a diameterD_(TH), wherein D_(TH) is approximately 1.4 mm.
 10. The toothbrushaccording to claim 8 wherein Y is in a range of 28 to
 40. 11. Thetoothbrush according to claim 8 wherein each of the tapered bristlefilaments have a diameter D_(B) of approximately 0.16 mm to 0.19 mm. 12.The toothbrush according to claim 8 further comprising: each of the tuftholes having a diameter D_(TH); the tuft holes arranged on the firstsurface of the head in at least one row, wherein adjacent ones of thetuft holes in the row are separated by a distance Z, wherein Z is alinear distance between center points of the adjacent tuft holes; andwherein a ratio of Z to D_(TH) is in a range of 1.5 to 1.8.
 13. Thetoothbrush according to claim 12 wherein the row is a transverse row.14. The toothbrush according to claim 12 wherein the row is alongitudinal row.
 15. The toothbrush according to claim 12 wherein thetuft holes are arranged on the first surface of the head in a pluralityof the rows.
 16. A toothbrush comprising: a handle; a head having afirst surface having a row of tuft holes, each of the tuft holes havinga perimeter P; a bristle tuft mounted within and extending from each ofthe tuft holes, each of the bristle tufts formed by a plurality oftapered bristle filaments; wherein adjacent tuft holes in the row oftuft holes are separated by a distance Z, wherein Z is a linear distancebetween center points of the adjacent tuft holes; and wherein a ratio ofZ to P is in a range of 0.35 to 0.46.
 17. The toothbrush according toclaim 16 wherein P is in a range of 5.0 mm to 6.0 mm.
 18. The toothbrushaccording to claim 16 wherein Z is in a range of 2.1 mm to 2.7 mm. 19.The toothbrush according to claim 16 wherein the tuft holes have asquare cross-sectional shape.
 20. A toothbrush comprising: a handle; ahead having a first surface and a second surface, the first surfacecomprising a tufting area A_(TS) comprising X number of tuft holes, eachof the tuft holes having a tuft hole area A_(TH); a bristle tuft mountedwithin and extending from each of the tuft holes, each of the bristletufts formed by a plurality of tapered bristle filaments; and wherein aratio of A_(TS) to X×A_(TH) is in a range of 3.4 to 4.4.